Menopause. How to manage extra pounds

The climacteric is the period that precedes the definitive menopause. Menopausal symptoms begin when estrogen and progesterone levels begin to change. The woman's body can go through various phases and symptoms during this period.

Hot flashes, insomnia, mood changes and weight gain are the main symptoms described by women near the age of 50 and associated with menopause. However, the "persistent" fat that accumulates around the belly area seems to be one of the most disturbing effects of time on women, as it affects both the aesthetic and psychological aspects.

What causes weight gain? One of the first theories held that weight gain is due to hormonal changes that occur during menopause and concerns the decrease in estrogen. Although this hypothesis is quite logical, in the last five years the International Menopause Society (International Menopause Society, USA) has focused its attention on other causes that arise due to age and change of habits. These include:

• Change in the way fat is stored. The "sensitivity" to fat storage increases, while at the same time, regardless of body type, more is stored in the abdominal area.
• Decrease in muscle tissue. Over the years the peak of muscle mass seen between the ages of 20 and 30 begins to recede giving way to adipose tissue. But muscle tissue is more metabolically active, that is, it helps the body burn more calories compared to fat.
• Changes in physical activity habits. Many times, due to the burden of professional or personal obligations, women "let go" and do not include physical activity in their daily routine. This translates into fewer calories burned, and more stored.

What to do:

1. Make physical activity a part of your daily life.

2. Limit the calories in the foods you eat.

3. Take care of your bones by consuming more calcium.

4.  Eat more protein.

5. Limit sugar.

6. Hydrate yourself. (Drink at least 6-8 glasses of water a day)

7. Try to get a quality sleep.

8. For best results, ask for the help of a nutritionist who will guide you.

Finally, don't forget to think positive, smile and don't get discouraged. After all, everything in life takes effort...

THE menopause it is a normal part of every woman's life. You have to expect it, educate yourself about it so you know what to expect and how to deal with it and stay healthy.